SSC 2026 Guidelines now available — 129 adult & 61 pediatric recommendations View guidelines →
PICC vs midline: the clinical differences, indications, contraindications, and a decision framework for choosing between a midline catheter and a PICC line — by infusate, duration, and patient factors.
Step-by-step clinical procedure for safe PICC line removal: positioning, controlled withdrawal, air-embolism and resistance precautions, catheter tip measurement, hemostasis, and documentation.
How ECG-guided (intracavitary ECG) PICC placement works: the P-wave method for real-time tip confirmation at the cavoatrial junction, electrode setup, interpretation, limitations, and when a chest X-ray is still needed.
Complete ultrasound-guided PICC insertion guide: pre-insertion vein survey, long-axis technique for basilic vein cannulation, guidewire US confirmation, catheter measurement, and intraoperative tip guidance with ECG.
Clinical decision guide comparing PICC, midline catheter, and non-tunneled CVC: indications, contraindications, osmolarity limits, dwell time, CLABSI risk, and evidence-based selection criteria and MAGIC.
Evidence-based guide to PICC tip position verification: cavoatrial junction target, intraprocedural ECG guidance (P-wave method), post-procedure CXR interpretation, malposition recognition, and CEVAD standards.
The complete clinical reference on PICC lines: indications, ultrasound-guided insertion, CEVAD tip position standards, maintenance protocols, complications, and removal — evidence-based.
Complete step-by-step guide to ultrasound-guided PICC line insertion using the modified Seldinger technique: site selection, vein assessment, catheter measurement, sterile technique, and post-insertion verification.
Clinical indications for PICC line placement — appropriate and inappropriate criteria and MAGIC, PICC for IV antibiotics, chemotherapy, TPN, and vesicants, and absolute contraindications.
Complete guide to PICC line complications: PICC-associated DVT (incidence, prevention, anticoagulation), CLABSI prevention, catheter occlusion (alteplase protocol), phlebitis, mechanical complications, and MARSI prevention.
Complete PICC care and maintenance guide: dressing change technique (CHG dressing, TSM, step-by-step), SASH flushing protocol, daily assessment requirements, patient education, and safe PICC removal procedure.
Complete PICC insertion competency framework: didactic training content, simulation requirements, proctored case minimums, competency checklist, privileges documentation, and annual competency maintenance requirements.
A patient guide to preparing for PICC line placement — what happens before, during, and immediately after the procedure, what to wear, what to expect, and how to prepare to minimize anxiety and ensure a smooth experience.
A complete patient guide to going home with a PICC line — dressing care, flushing, bathing, activity, recognizing problems, when to call for help, and home infusion therapy.